Expand homestead exemptions?

Compared to other changes envisioned for Florida's tax system on the November ballot, the three proposed constitutional amendments at issue in today's Front Burner — Nos. 2, 9 and 11 — are small potatoes. Together, they could reduce local tax revenues across Florida by about $45 million over three years.

But on principle and precedent, they're significant. Should voters be targeting property-tax breaks to certain groups by amending the Florida Constitution? And if these amendments are approved, will that clear the way for more — and perhaps bigger — breaks in the future?

Under state law, a property-tax exemption of up to $50,000 is available for all who make their permanent residences in homes they own in Florida. And in this group, seniors, people with disabilities and disabled veterans are eligible for higher exemptions.

Three constitutional amendments awaiting voters' verdicts would increase exemptions for additional disabled veterans, as well as the spouses of veterans or first responders killed on duty and some lower-income seniors.

Republican and Democratic state lawmakers often split on issues, but they unanimously voted to put these amendments on the ballot. Clearly, tax cuts for seniors, veterans and first responders enjoy bipartisan appeal.